Oro’s Apex Traditional Body Refutes Purported ‘Election’ Of A New Ahta Oro
The apex traditional institution in Oro, the Obio Ifong Isong Òrò (OIIO) formerly known as the Council of Oro Traditional Rulers (COTR) has dispelled the speculations that a new premier traditional ruler, designated as Ahta Òrò has been chosen.
The body in a press statement issued on Saturday, June 5, 2021 and titled, “Re: Purported “Election” of a new Ahta Oro: OIIO Calls For Calm”, said no one has been chosen to occupy the highest traditional stool of Oro – which is made up of five local government areas, namely: Oron, Okobo, Mbo, Udung Uko and Orue Offong/Oruko
The statement signed by HRM Offong Effiong Unanaowo, chairman, OIIO and Paramount Ruler-elect of Urue Offong/Oruko LGA and HH Offong Etim Oquong, secretary, OIIO and Village Head of Edok refuted the purported announcement on social media platforms on Friday, June 4, 2021 that a new Ahta Òrò has been “elected”, describing it as a hoax.
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The statement read, “Sequel to the unfortunate announcement on social media platforms on Friday, June 4, 2021 that a new Ahta Òrò has been “elected”, the apex traditional body in Òrò, Obio Ifong Isong Òrò (OIIO) formerly known as the Council of Oro Traditional Rulers (COTR) hereby appeals to Oro people to remain calm as it addresses the issue in line with the due process of the well-known Oro tradition.”
“The Obio Ifong Isong Òrò (OIIO) also warned against further comments on the matter either on social media or any other medium for that matter.
“This decision was reached today, Saturday June 5, 2021 during an emergency executive meeting of the body.
“The apex traditional institution therefore enjoins all indigenes of Òrò, residing at home or in the Diaspora to discountenance any information purporting to announce the “election” of a new Ahta Oro as such event has not taken place in the eye of Oro culture and tradition as well as extant rules pertaining thereof,” the statement added.
